The New Hampshire State police release the following statement on driving safely this holiday season.

CONCORD — Each year people are killed in traffic collisions during the busy Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend. With many motorists traveling to attend gatherings with family and friends it is important that drivers be responsible and remember that buzzed driving is drunken driving. The consumption of alcohol or impairing drugs, and driving don’t mix. Saving lives on our roads is a top priority and we need everyone’s help to do it. That is why the State Police is joining with other state, local, and county highway safety officials to remind everyone of some simple steps they can take to enjoy a safe and festive Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend without jeopardizing their life and the lives of others on the road.

— Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin

— Before drinking, designate a sober driver and give that person your keys

— If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely

— Use your Sober Rides program where available

— If you happen to see a drunken driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact the police via 911

— If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely

— And if your vehicle breaks down on a busy roadway either wait for help off the road in a safe location or remain seat belted inside of your vehicle.

Driving a vehicle while impaired is not worth the risk of killing yourself or someone else. Don’t let this Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend end in an arrest or even worse, a tragic death.

Whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many it’s not worth the risk.